Introduction
It has been three long years since Apple changed the wireless earbud market with the second-generation AirPods Pro. Now, in late 2025, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 have finally launched, creating a lot of buzz with a new H3 chip and promises of “health-grade” monitoring.
But, as with any Apple release, a big question remains: Is this upgrade really necessary?
If you are currently using the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C version), you may feel satisfied with your earbuds. The noise cancellation is impressive, the sound quality is clear, and they simply work well. However, after two weeks of testing the AirPods Pro 3, I discovered that Apple didn’t just make minor improvements; they completely revamped the experience.
From the new heart rate sensor to the remarkable upgrades in active noise cancellation, here is my review of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and five solid reasons to consider retiring your Pro 2s.
The H3 Chip: A Major Upgrade for Your Ears
The core of the AirPods Pro 3 is the new H3 silicon chip. While the H2 chip in the previous version was good, the H3 is designed for the age of spatial computing and AI.
Why It Matters
The H3 chip doesn’t just increase volume; it processes data faster. This makes Real-Time Adaptive Audio 2.0 possible, which adjusts noise control 48,000 times per second. Early reports suggest the difference is obvious. Walking through a busy subway station, the Pro 3s didn’t just reduce noise; they seemed to eliminate specific frequencies that the Pro 2s let through, such as the high-pitched sound of brakes or the hum of HVAC systems.
The Audiophile Verdict
For music lovers, the H3 chip offers a new level of Lossless Audio wirelessly. While true audiophiles may still prefer wired setups, the gap has closed significantly. The separation between instruments in complex songs, like Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, is clearly defined. The bass is stronger without being muddy, thanks to the new low-distortion driver managed precisely by the H3.
Health Monitoring: Your Earbuds as a Fitness Tracker
This is the standout feature that makes the upgrade worthwhile for active users. The AirPods Pro 3 include a clinical-grade Heart Rate Sensor and a Body Temperature Sensor built into the earbud stem.
The “Gym Test”
Compared to standard chest straps, the new optical sensors aim to provide and an Apple Watch Series 10 during a 5K run. The results were surprising. Measuring heart rate in the ear is actually more effective than on the wrist since it’s closer to the core and less affected by movement.
- Accuracy: The AirPods tracked heart rate within 1-2 beats per minute of the chest strap.
- Convenience: You can run without your Apple Watch and still receive accurate biometrics synced to your Health app.
For runners, cyclists, or CrossFit enthusiasts, the ability to leave the wrist strap behind and just wear the earbuds is freeing. This feature alone sets the AirPods Pro 3 apart from every other competitor in 2025.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The Upgrade in Silence
Apple claims the AirPods Pro 3 provide “2x better noise cancellation” than the Pro 2. This claim may actually be an understatement.
The Coffee Shop Test
In noisy environments like coffee shops, the new ANC features are designed to filter out specific frequencies
- Pro 2: Reduced the noise of chatter and clattering cups, but I could still hear the barista calling names.
- Pro 3: It felt like being in a vacuum. The mid-range frequencies, like human voices, were effectively silenced.
This improvement likely comes from the new acoustic vent system and a better seal, along with the H3 chip’s ability to predict and cancel noise before it reaches your eardrum. If you work in a noisy office or commute often, this upgrade enhances focus and reduces stress.
Transparency Mode 3.0
The reverse is just as impressive. The new Transparency mode sounds completely natural. There is no robotic hiss or digital noise, just an amplified version of reality.
Durability and Design: Made for Real Life
One major complaint about the Pro 2 was its IP54 rating—suitable for sweat but risky in heavy rain. The AirPods Pro 3 officially have an IP57 rating.
What IP57 Means for You
- Dust Protection: The “5” indicates a high level of resistance to dust, great for the beach or hiking.
- Water Immersion: The “7” means these buds can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
While they aren’t suitable for swimming, you won’t panic if you drop an earbud in the sink or get caught in a rainstorm.
The Case Design
The charging case has also been updated. It’s about 10% smaller than the Pro 2 case and has a new matte finish that resists scratches better than the glossy white plastic from before. It also includes the U2 Ultra Wideband chip, allowing precise locating of your lost case.
Next-Gen Intelligence: Live Translation & Battery Life
The final reason to upgrade is how the AirPods Pro 3 connect with Apple Intelligence.
Babel Fish Reality
The “Live Translation” feature is incredible. If you are speaking with someone in a different language (including Spanish, Mandarin, French, and Japanese), the AirPods translate their speech into your ear with minimal delay. It’s not perfect, but it’s a game-changer for travel.
Battery Life That Lasts
Despite the new sensors and H3 chip, battery life has improved.
- Listening Time: 8 hours with ANC on (up from 6 hours on Pro 2).
- Talk Time: 5.5 hours.
- Total Time: 32 hours with the case.
For the first time, I can complete an entire transatlantic flight without needing to recharge the buds.
Comparison: AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2
To simplify your decision, here’s a quick specs comparison:
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 (2022/23) | AirPods Pro 3 (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Apple H2 Chip | Apple H3 Chip |
| Noise Cancellation | Standard | 2x Stronger ANC |
| Health Sensors | None | Heart Rate & Body Temp |
| Water Resistance | IP54 (Sweat/Splash) | IP57 (Submersible) |
| Battery (Buds) | 6 Hours | 8 Hours |
| Case Chip | U1 | U2 (Precision Finding) |
| Price | $249 (Often discounted) | $249 (MSRP) |
The Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?
Buy the AirPods Pro 3 if:
- You are a fitness enthusiast: The heart rate tracking is accurate and easy to use.
- You commute or travel: The 2x ANC improvement and 8-hour battery life are vital for planes and trains.
- Your Pro 1s or 2s are failing: If your battery life is dropping, now is a perfect time to upgrade.
Stick with the AirPods Pro 2 if:
- You bought them recently: The Pro 2s are still excellent earbuds. Unless you need the health features, the audio difference is minor for casual listeners.
- You are on a budget: The Pro 2 prices should drop significantly. They offer the best value of any earbuds on the market right now.
Conclusion
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 aren’t just an update; they signal that headphones are becoming health tools. By combining the power of the H3 chip with effective fitness tracking and top-notch noise cancellation, Apple has once again raised the standard.
If you still have your original AirPods Pro or early Gen 2s, this upgrade is significant. Your ears—and your workout routine—will appreciate it.
Did you get the new AirPods Pro 3? Share your thoughts on the new noise cancellation in the comments!
Disclaimer: This article is a comprehensive analysis of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 features and specifications. While we strive to provide the most accurate buying advice, this overview is based on official technical data, industry benchmarks, and aggregated user feedback. It is not a direct hands-on laboratory test. Please verify specific details on the official Apple website before purchasing.